Winter Sports Edition 2012

i

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

LCC’s Matt Shrigley

& LJCD’s Maya Hood

Winter 2012All-Cif TeAms



See All 6 Winter Sports

Feature Athletes

inside: Carlsbad High Soccer Coach Carl Higham

meet our scholar athlete: Vista’s Collin Nyenhuis

Get this MaG Free at www.spotlightsportsmag.comWINTER SPORTS 2012VOLUME 3 NO.2

SAN DIEGO’S PREMIER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ATHLETE MAGAZINE

Registered Representative offering securities through Independent Financial Group, LLC a registered broker-dealer.

Member FINRA/SIPC advisory services offered through Capital Growth, Inc. Capital Growth, Inc. and Independent Financial Group, LLC are not affiliated.

Retiring soon?Changed employers?Need to rollover a 401k?f What are my options for the rollover?

f Who should I name as my beneficiary?

f What if I have company stock?

f What taxes may be due?

Capital Growth, inC.8910 University Center Lane Suite 150San Diego, CA 92122

858-552-6960Or email me at [email protected]

– Pat Brennan, MBA VICe PReSIdeNt

Investment & estate Planning

“To receive the answers to these and other questions you may have, please contact me

for a complimentary consultation.”

We know how much your sport matters to you, because we’re athletes too. And we’re as

committed to your recovery as you are.

At UC San Diego Sports Medicine, we treat your muscles, bones and joints from head to toe.

For more information, call 858.657.8200 or visit sportsmedicine.ucsd.edu.

We feel your pain.And then we fix it.

We strive for 100% satisfaction!

We use the latest techniques

and technologies!

We see patients of all ages!

We have the room –

up to 20,000 sq. ft

At ProActive Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, we

understand you are coming to us so we can make you feel better. We

also understand therapy can be much more than getting your muscles

to work again. Therefore, we offer an environment in which recovery is

combined with education, nurturing relationships and deep awareness of

our patients’ needs.

When we began many years ago, our vision was to create a friendly,

cohesive environment in which our patients would enjoy being an active

participant in the rehabilitation process. ProActive has achieved just

that and more. By providing the best possible care, ProActive has

developed strong relationships with San Diego’s leading physicians.

Carlsbad, Oceanside, Encinitas, San Marcos

6070 Avenida Encinas Carlsbad, CA 92011

760-444-0102email: [email protected]

4S Ranch, Rancho Penasquitos, Carmel Mountain Ranch, Rancho Santa Fe, Poway,

Rancho Bernardo, Carmel Valley, San Diego

10720 Thornmint Road, Suite A San Diego, CA 92127


Vista, San Marcos, Oceanside, Escondido

115 Main Street Vista, CA 92084

760-842-8824 email: [email protected]

2

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

SPOTLIGHT SPORTS WINTER 2012

VOL.3 NO.2contents8 Winter Sports All-CIF Teams by Steve Brand, San Diego Hall of Champions

10 Girls Water Polo Gabby Stone - Bishop’s

16 Boys Basketball Matt Shrigley - La Costa Canyon

18 Girls Basketball Maya Hood - La Jolla Country Day

20 Boys Soccer Jared Hegardt - Cathedral Catholic

22 Girls Soccer Sarah Adams - Westview

24 Wrestling Chance Eskam - Carlsbad

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Departments3 The Heart of a Champion Our regular column by FCA’s Donnie Dee

6 Spotlight Sports Scholar Athlete Vista High’s Collin Nyenhuis

12 Ask the Jock Doc Your Questions Answered by the Sports Medicine Experts at UC San Diego

26 Coach’s Corner Winter Coach of the Year: Carlsbad’s Carl Higham

Players of the Year Matt Shrigley (La Costa Canyon) and Maya Hood (La Jolla Country Day), photographed by Kimberly Deutsch

Spotlight Sports’ Winter Scholar athlete from Vista High School, Collin Nyenhuis, participates in The Miracle League.

We all remember when Herm Edwards, former head coach of the New York Jets, exclaimed at a post-game press conference, “You play… to win the game. You play…. to win the game.” As a coach or an athlete, we would all agree that the primary purpose of competition is to win. It was Vince Lombardi who said, “Winning isn’t the most important thing, it’s the only thing.” Victory is the reason we practice, lift weights, condition and create a game plan. Winning is one of the goals of each season.

The reality is that winning is a short-term accomplishment. Sure, teams and athletes get their name written in history when a championship is won. Absolutely, there is worth in all the hard work and hours preparing for each competition, but time ensures the fading significance of winning.

For example: • Who won the Super Bowl in 1998?• Who won the NCAA basketball tournament

10 years ago?• Who was the National League’s Cy Young

Award winner in 2005?If you’re like me, you probably don’t know the

answers to these once important sports highlights questions without a quick Google search. That’s the point! If winning is the only thing, then why doesn’t our memory of that experience last longer?

I believe winning is the result of doing many things well and worth the time and effort that it requires, but it’s certainly not the only thing. As a coach or an athlete, the influence you have on the platform God has given you is the only thing. It is really what matters most. Twenty years from now, will people remember your wins? Probably not!

But those whose lives you have touched will never forget the impact you had on them. Now that’s playing with a purpose!

It’s what I respect most about Tim Tebow. The Denver Broncos’ quarterback plays for the right reasons. The team won their Division and won seven out of eight games during a key stretch of the season. There is no question that Tebow is playing to win, but he is also having a tremendous impact on his team, community and young athletes all over this country. Before the New England game, Tim Tebow arranged to meet a local high school quarterback, who had endured a horrible injury, in order to encourage and support him during a difficult time in his life. Now that’s playing with a purpose!

As an athlete, it’s important for to you realize that your relationship with your sport will go one of two ways: you will use your sport, or your sport will use you. If it’s just about winning, then consider yourself used by your sport.

Ephesians 5:16 tells us to make the most of every opportunity. You have an opportunity as an athlete to transform your sport and use your influence to be about more than winning!

Donnie Dee has been with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for 19 years and now serves as FCA’s Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer at the Home Office in Kansas City, Mo. As a Kansas City native, Dee played football and basketball for Oak Park High School and was a four-year letterman in football at the University of Tulsa. He was then drafted by the Indianapolis Colts and played in the NFL for two years. Today, Dee directs the daily ministry of FCA’s Home Office, which serves more than 400 local and regional offices that annually impact more than 2 million people across the country. Dee met his wife, Jackie, while both were athletes at the University of Tulsa. They have two children, Johnny and Jennifer, and reside in San Diego, California.

Post your sports news on our wall!

www.facebook.com/spotlightsports

THE HEART OF A CHAMPION

More Than Winning By Donnie Dee

Tim Tebow took time before a Bronco’s game to meet with Jacob Rainey, a former prep QB who had his leg amputated after an injury. AP PHOTO/DEREk GEE, cOuRTESy ESPN.cOM

3

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

determination rings with every hit

*No cash value. No cash back. No rain checks. Coupon not valid on prior, online or S.A. Elite Sports Authority purchases, gift cards, licenses or event tickets. Offer good on in-stock merchandise only. Must present coupon at time of purchase to redeem. Cannot be combined with any other offer, Cash Card, coupon or Employee or Friends & Family discount. Coupon may not be reproduced. One coupon per customer, per purchase. Excludes clearance items marked with 7¢ price endings; UGG; Titleist; Penn Reels; firearms; and ammunition.

MORE EXCLUSIONS MAY APPLY. VISIT SPORTSAUTHORITY.COM/EXCLUSIONS

OR SEE STORE FOR DETAILS.

1373 5250 1101 1106 3012 9

Name: CMM SAN DIEGO BASEBALL 25Offer: $25 OFF COUPON

Valid Dates: 11/01/2011 to 6/30/2012Requestor: JENNA STEIN

Stores: ALL

Disclaimer: TBD by Copy

GSI Code:

Valid NOW–6/30/12

your purchase of $100 or more*

off$25

VALID NOW–3/31/2012

1374

1250

1101

1106

3012

8

Name:

CMM

SAN

DIEGO

FOOTBALL

25

Offer:

$25

OFF

COUPON

Valid

Dates:

11/01/2011

to

6/30/2012

Requestor:

JENNA

STEIN

Stores:

ALL

Disclaimer:

TBD

by

Copy

GSI

Code:

5

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

In the many packed gyms around the county during the

road to the CIF basketball finals, the rock concert-like

atmosphere makes it one of the most exciting events to

watch in all of high school sports. This year we had the rare

privilege to have two of our teams make it all the way through to

the state championship games in Sacramento.

Representing both of these teams and appearing on this

editions’ cover are Matt Shrigley of La Costa Canyon and

Maya Hood of La Jolla Country Day. Shooting the photos for

the cover with these young athletes was a great experience. Their

maturity and good manners are a reflection of their parents,

coaching staff, and schools that have guided and supported

them during their high school careers. As they take the next step

to the college level, they are sure to make an impact.

This Winter Sports Issue marks our association with the

San Diego Hall of Champions. If you do not already know the

SDHOC, they are the wonderful people in Balboa Park who are

responsible for the All-CIF teams that we have all come to revere.

We are honored to be able to bring the winter All-CIF teams to

you while continuing to showcase our feature athletes in the

way you have come to know and love.

One of the highlights of this edition is our scholar athlete

feature. Two-sport athlete Collin Nyenhuis is a remarkable

young man whose talents extend beyond his sport and into the

community.

It was a season of firsts for our winter Coach of the Year

Carl Higham. Read how the Carlsbad High girls’ soccer coach

directed his team to its first Avocado West League title and first

CIF San Diego Section championship.

Visit our website at spotlightsportsmag.com and join us on

Facebook. As always, if you know anyone who would like to

become a sponsor or advertiser, please have them contact

me at [email protected].

Until next time,

Jim Schwab

Publisher/editorJIM ScHWAb

staff Writer bRAD HOLLINGSWORTH

CoVer desiGN JILL DAVIS

CoVer Photo kIMbERLy DEuTScH WWW.SNAPPSPHOTOGRAPHy.cOM

GraPhiC desiGN & ProduCtioN JILL DAVIS

CoNtributiNG PhotoGraPhers

DEb HELLMAN

bILL REILLy

kIMbERLy DEuTScH WWW.SNAPPSPHOTOGRAPHy.cOM

CoPy editor SyDNEy SAuNDERS

ADVERTISING INfORMATION cALL 760-809-2700

[email protected]

© 2012 by SPOTLIGHT SPORTS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART Of THIS

PubLIcATION MAy bE REPRODucED IN ANy MANNER WITHOuT PERMISSION. ALL IMAGES ARE © AND

THE PHOTOGRAPHS ARE REPRODucED WITH THE PERMISSION Of THE PHOTOGRAPHERS AND/OR

THEIR REPRESENTATIVES.

sPotliGht sPorts

cARLSbAD, cA 92008

[email protected]

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. However, Spotlight Sports, its subsidiaries, affiliates, advertisers or agents, shall not be responsible for errors, misprints, omissions or any misinformation.

With respect to financial, medical, nutritional or physical training information found within, this publication is not a substitute for readers’ responsibility to seek personalized attention. The accuracy of the material is to be considered limited to its intended use, and is not guaranteed. Spotlight Sports shall not be liable for any claim, loss, expense or damage of any kind to user, or to any third party, related to the use of information contained herein.

Letter From the Publisher

6

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Collin nyenhuis’ value to Vista High and his community reaches far beyond the basketball court and baseball field. While he is an invaluable member of both squads, it is what the senior does when he is not playing that makes him the true definition of a student-

athlete.The 6'2" senior, who carries a 3.8 overall grade-point average, is actively

involved on the Panthers’ campus, and when he graduates in June, he will be a living example of someone who seized every opportunity, no matter how big or small.

“Collin is an amazing student-athlete of great character. He constantly walks the talk of good character and is a positive and compassionate presence on campus,” said David Hanlon, a VHS history teacher who heads the Character Leaders Program. “Collin inspires others by who he is on a daily basis. Collin always jumps in to help where he can. Collin works well with well with kids of diverse backgrounds and his disarming personality and strong character make him trustworthy, and the students and staff greatly admire him.”

For his efforts, Nyenhuis has been named spotlight sports magazine’s Scholar-Athlete for the Winter Season and his true value to Panthers’ Avocado League East title in basketball had nothing to do with statistics. While teammates John Fletcher and Sedrick Childress were grabbing headlines, Nyenhuis was just going about his business under the boards or at the defensive end of the floor, inspiring his teammates to give their very best.

“I knew my role on the basketball team was to defend and allow my teammates to be the best scorers they could be,” Nyenhuis said. “I love to score as well, but the best approach for our team to go far was to be all about the team.

WINTER SCHOLAR ATHLETE

Vista High’s Collin Nyenhuis: A Leader in the Community and Beyond

Outside of school, Nyenhuis is actively involved with the Miracle League, which incorporates baseball with physically or mentally challenged athletes. It’s an experience that has had a lasting effect on him.

By Brad Hollingsworth

PHOTO: JERRy bRyAN PHOTOGRAPHy

7

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

“I saw my role as captain of the basketball team was to lead by example, especially since my younger brother Carston was also on the varsity this year with me. I also felt I need to be an encourager, promote team unity and to work harder than anyone else on the team.”

And no one saw that more than basketball coach Charlie Mercado, who valued Nyenhuis’ role more than anyone else. “He’s a great kid and our hardest working player,” said Mercado, who played for the Panthers in the 1990s. “Whatever I asked him to do, he would do. He’s just relentless and we wouldn’t have gone as far as we did without him.”

If Nyenhuis contributions on the basketball court helped lead the Panthers to the CIF-San Diego Division I finals, where he earned the teams’ sportsmanship award, then his work off the court had a much greater effect for his community. At Vista, he is a leader for the “Breaking Down the Walls” seminar and a Safe School Ambassador, which is an anti-bullying campaign. Outside of school, Nyenhuis is actively involved with the Miracle League, which incorporates baseball with physically or mentally challenged athletes. It’s an experience that has had a lasting effect on him.

“Being a Miracle League Buddy, has affected me personally and has helped me as an athlete to have a great perspective on my own game,” Nyenhuis said. “Even with all their limitations, they are always smiling and encouraging each other, even the opposing team. I will always appreciate every win and every loss as a high school athlete. Being a buddy is a great reminder to smile and have fun in every game I play.”

Nyenhuis’ role on the VHS baseball team is quite different than in basketball. As a

third baseman and leadoff hitter, he has a much greater role providing a steady bat in the leadoff position and solid glove at the proverbial hot corner.

“I love every aspect of baseball,” said Nyenhuis, who batted .290 with three home runs and 13 RBI last season. “My approach right now is to stay healthy, gain weight and get on base as the leadoff batter.”

Nyenhuis would like to play baseball at the college level and major in criminology with perhaps a career as a detective or FBI agent. Those goals are seemingly within reach after what he has accomplished in high school, despite having dyslexia. However,

Nyenhuis conquered that like he does everything else in lifewith reckless abandon.

“As a dyslexic student, I have learned to work harder and challenge myself to utilize my abilities,” he explained. “For example, when I was younger, I remember in Sunday School if you could recite the memory verse at the end of class you would get a prize, so I always memorized the verse so I could get that prize. I learned to read by sight memorization.

And that work ethic has driven Nyenhuis to unprecedented heights as a student and an athlete.

Nyenhuis helped lead

the Panthers to the CIF-

San Diego Division I

basketball finals where

he earned the teams’

sportsmanship award,

but it was his work off the

court that had an even

greater impact on his

community.

Vista’s Collin Nyenhuis goes in for a lay-up during their game at Mission Hills.PHOTO: JOHN kOSTER fOR THE NORTH cOuNTy TIMES

8

Spotlight Sports Magazine and the SD Hall of Champions Present

the 2011-12 Winter sports All-CiF teAms

T here is something special about a high school athlete when they perform their best at the times it matters most. Perfect examples are basketball players La Costa Canyon’s Matt Shrigley and La Jolla Country Day’s Maya Hood, who led their respective teams to the state

championship game and topped our list of Winter All-CIF Players of the Year.Shrigley, a 6'6" forward/guard who is headed to San Diego State and led his

team to the state championship game in Sacramento, always seemed to have the ball in his hands when the Mavericks needed it, whether it was making a key basket or free throw or pulling down a crucial rebound, as he did as the clock wound down during the San Diego Section Division II title game against Lincoln.

“He’s a prime-time player,” says Coach David Cassaw. “He’s smart—he knows when to shoot and when to give it up. I trust him that when things don’t go according to plan, he’ll make the right decision.” Cassaw went on to describe at least three times—twice against El Camino—when Shrigley helped win games that seemed all but lost.

The high-jumping 5'10" Hood, too, jumps out at you when the Torreys needed a boost. She not only averaged 17.4 points, 8.7 rebounds and collected almost four steals a game, but also led her team to the Division IV state championship. “Maya is such a competitor,” said Coach Terri Bamford. “The tougher the game, the more she can produce. She is a very spirited player but she also remains a team player. She’s as athletic as they come and knows how to control the tempo of the game – knowing when to be aggressive and when to back off. She just doesn’t make mistakes.

“With all of that you know she’s an incredible leader by example. She’s very mature. Maya has compassion for her teammates and they all want to play hard for her. When she talks, everyone listens because she has so much knowledge, humility and compassion.” And yet all of those words still don’t begin to capture the full essence of Maya Hood, whose twin sister Malina as well as junior Kelsey Plum were also named to the All-CIF team.

Not surprisingly, the Players of the Year in the other four sports were also cited for more than just their athletic ability.

Gabby Stone of The Bishop’s School, who led the Knights to the Division II title and No. 1 ranking in the section, was considered as tough as they come from her goalie position when the other team threatened. She will take her athletic and academic skills to Stanford.

Both soccer standouts Sarah Adams of Westview and Francisco Ramirez of San Diego Southwest gained reputations as much more than goal-scorers, as they not only could find the back of the net, but had the ability to spot teammates who might have an even better chance to score.

And they didn’t come any tougher than Central of El Centro’s Micah Perez, a sophomore, who dominated at 113 pounds, earning a third place medal at the state wrestling championships en route to being selected as his sport’s top athlete for 2011-2012.

By Steve Brand

PHOTO: kIMbERLy DEuTScH WWW.SNAPPSPHOTOGRAPHy.cOM

9

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

Pictured opposing page – All-CIF first-team selection: Jared Hegardt (Cathedral Catholic). This page clockwise: Maya Hood (La Jolla Country Day), Matt Shrigley (La Costa Canyon) and Gabby Stone (Bishop’s).

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

PHOTO: kEVIN MuMMAuPHOTO: SuSAN cOOPER PHOTOGRAPHy

10

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS


T here may be goalies that are taller, stronger and quicker than Gabby Stone, but they probably don’t work as hard as she does. Since she began

playing as a seventh grader, Stone has only known one way to prepare - by staying in the water longer than anyone else. The results have enabled her to earn enough trophies and awards to fill the bottom of a pool.

“My team and I worked extremely hard this year. Each of us, coaches included, worked tirelessly through our winter break and after school,” said Stone, the CIF-San Diego Section girls’ water polo player of the year. “We were in the water four hours a day during winter break with the exception of

Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Sundays and practiced six days a week during school.

The labor was worth it as the Knights won their second consecutive county championship, defeating La Jolla, 9-6, in the CIF-San Diego Section Division III final. Stone earned most valuable player honors for her efforts against the Vikings and set a school record for saves (377) in a season. Stone credits her coaches and teammates for the extra motivation that allowed her to have such a great season.

“My individual efforts to improve, coupled with daily competition in practice enabled me to have a successful season,” Stone said. “As far as individual skills, my coaches gave me specialized goalie drills to improve my leg strength and agility in

the water. These drills greatly helped me as they’re applicable to game situations.”

Stone will take her talents to Stanford, where she expects the competition to be tougher and uniquely different from the high school game. “Collegiate athletes are typically stronger, so I will need to adjust to their powerful shots and style of play,” Stone said. “For example, I will probably not see as many slow lob shots in collegiate games since college players are able to pound the ball in the cage with greater strength and they don’t need off-speed shots to beat the goalie.”

They may beat her, but it won’t be because Stone hasn’t put in the work in the water.

Bishops’ Gabby Stone Defends Her Goal

<< all-CIF Girls Water Polo FIRST Team

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Gabby Stone Bishop’s Senior

Erin Pannek Bishop’s Senior

Meagan Smith Carlsbad Senior

Jessica Webster Bishop’s Junior

Ariel Arcidiancono La Jolla Senior

Julia Herrmann Torrey Pines Junior

Sierra Stillwater Patrick Henry Junior

Makena Magro Carlsbad Junior

Hannah Carrillo Bishop’s Freshman

Rylee Boland La Jolla Senior

<< all-CIF Girls Water Polo SECOND Team

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Emma Sasson Rancho Bernardo Senior

Emilie Myers Cathedral Catholic Senior

Michelle Martinelli Torrey Pines Junior

Nicole Ryder Mt. Carmel Senior

Kaitlyn Persky Valhalla Senior

Natalie Chun Bishop’s Sophomore

Lauren Silver La Jolla Sophomore

Katie Owens Granite Hills Senior

Bryn Lutz Carlsbad Senior

Sarah Bushnell Fallbrook Senior

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Gabby Stone, Bishop’s

COACH OF THE YEAR: Doug Peabody, Bishop’s

girls >> WATER POLO

Spotlight on Gabby StonesPort Water Polo PositioN Goalie heiGht 6' 0" Grade seNior GPa 4.15 ColleGe staNford uNiVersity

favorite local restaurant? a thai place called spice & rice. i love their Pad thai noodles!

favorite video game? the simpson’s Game, dance dance revolution

favorite band/music artist? Jack Johnson, billy Joel, the beatles, the XX

ultimate dream car? Mercedes convertible

favorite Movie? remember the titans

favorite actor or actress? rachel Mcadams and Jason segel

favorite sportscaster? Charles barkley

favorite cartoon as a youngster? the little Mermaid

Person you’d most like to meet? aung san suu Kyi – awarded the Nobel Peace Price for her dedication to democracy, women’s rights, and health care for the people of Myanmar.

What’s the best thing about your sport? Water polo has enabled me to meet people from all over the country who share my passion for the game.

advice for younger athletes? athletics may be challenging and difficult at times, but stick with your desired sport through adversity. i wanted to quit water polo when i was much younger and am so thankful that i stuck with it. the struggle makes the end result more rewarding and fulfilling.

Nickname? Gabs, Gabster, Pebbles, Megatron

“I am very lucky to

have been coached by

the same skilled coaches

throughout my high school

and club water polo careers.

They have given me a solid

foundation and I would not

be the water polo goalie I am

today without them.”

11

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

A. In this day and age, there’s a lot of pres-sure on young athletes to succeed. The high level of competition has caused a rise in youth sports injuries. The harder and more intense the competition, the greater risk there is for injury. There are two types of injuries that athletes sustain while playing sports: overuse and acute. It sounds like your daugh-ter is experiencing overuse injuries. The most common lower extremity injuries in lacrosse players include ligament injuries, strains and sprains, and tendinitis.

The first step in injury prevention is awareness by the athlete, parent, and coach. Pushing through small overuse injuries is a leading cause of more serious injuries.

“Approach your daughter’s coach and make sure that she is aware of her pain. Her participation in practice and games should be temporarily stopped to give the injured tis-sues time to recover.” says Lindsey Marshall, Physician Assistant at UC San Diego Sports Medicine (and former semi-pro soccer player). “Rest is extremely important in preventing further injury. When your daughter feels that her pain has subsided, it’s important for her to implement all of the following tools as she returns to playing lacrosse.”

Gradually increase the frequency and intensity of play while being aware of any pain.

Warm up and cool down properly.Slowly incorporate aerobic activity,

strength training, and agility training prior to returning to competition.

Maintain open communication between yourself, your daughter and the coach regard-ing her level of pain and ability to return to playing lacrosse

If your daughter continues to experience knee or ankle pain, she should be evalu-

Q. My daughter has been practicing hard to get ready for varsity lacrosse. She’s complaining that both her knee and ankle have been bothering her. She’s putting a lot of pressure on herself to play, and the coaches want her out on the field too. I’m concerned that this may eventually lead to a bigger injury. What should we do?

Santa Fe Christian’s certified athletic trainer Kristal Peterson tends to an ankle during a boys’ lacrosse game. The most common injuries in lacrosse players occur to the lower extremities including ligament injuries, strains and sprains, and tendinitis.PHOTO: TAyLOR WASHINGTON

12

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

13

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

ated by a sports medicine specialist who can develop an individualized treatment plan that may include physical therapy or bracing.

Q. I’ve heard that you should stretch after exercise or practice, but not before exercise? What’s the latest on stretching?

A. There is no scientific proof that stretch-ing before exercise prevents injury during that specific workout. However, stretching in general can increase range of motion, pro-mote smooth and efficient movement and may reduce the risk of injury during exercise, particularly in sports that require extreme flexibility or explosive movements. There is some evidence that static stretching (long, slow stretching) immediately before exercise may temporarily decrease the muscle’s ability to generate force or power.

So when should you stretch? Ideally stretching is done when your muscles are warm, for example, after a workout. But you

can also stretch any time during the day: while watching TV, waiting for a ride, doing homework. Put the muscle into a position of tension (not pain) and hold for 15-60 sec-onds. Repeat 4 times.

How do you warm up? Warm up with low-intensity aerobic activity to increase blood flow to your muscles and get your heart pumping. Then perform dynamic movements that simulate your sports activity to lubricate the joints and get your neuro-muscular patterns in the groove. “Dynamic stretching” is appropriate for sports that involve ballistic (bouncing) movements. For example, if you play tennis, jog 5-10 minutes. Then do some hurdle walks, trunk rotations and swing your racquet easily to simulate all your strokes (forehand, backhand, overhead/serve), gradually increasing the arc of move-ment. Move onto the court and perform your strokes at half speed. Build up to hitting the ball with full speed and intensity. After your match or practice, stretch the muscles you use in tennis, for example, calves, ham-strings, groin, trunk and front shoulder/chest.

If you experience muscle soreness after a hard workout or competition, stretching doesn’t help get rid of the discomfort any sooner. But it won’t hurt either.

It’s easy to envision a long fulfilling retirement.

What is more difficult is imagining how you’ll fund it.

We can help you with the second part.

To schedule an appointment, please call (760) 602-3470. To receive a free copy of our investing

primer titled Fundamentals of Investing and our complimentary newsletter, The Frugal Investor, send your email

address to [email protected]

Do you wonder how your portfolio will stand up to the

test of time? If you’re ready to take a fresh look at your

financial future, Anchor Bay Capital will review your

existing portfolio at no cost or obligation. You do not have

to commit to using our services or to making any changes to

your current strategy. We simply would like you to find out

why for over a decade people in Carlsbad have entrusted

us to manage their assets. If you do not have a financial plan, we can create one uniquely tailored

to your needs. Either way, you will benefit from our personal attention and investment perspectives!

www.AnchorBayCapital.comAnchor Bay Capital 5780 Fleet Street, Suite 308 Carlsbad, CA 92008

Ask the Jock Doc is brought to you by the sports medicine experts at UC San Diego Health System – Sports Medicine. Let us help you get back on track. Call 858.657.8200. For answers to your sports injury or performance questions email [email protected].

Text “freeslice” to 90210 for… you guessed it…

A FREE Slice!

Connect with the student athletes & their families in your community!

Team up with us!Place an ad in the

next issue of SPOTLIGHT

SPORTS MaGazIne

Call 760-809-2700or email [email protected]

Why advertise in SPOTLIGHT SPORTS MaGazIne?•Supportlocalhighschoolprogramsandhelppromoteawarenessofthestudentathletes,

positivevalues,andsportsmanship.

•Withhighschoolsportsaspopularasever,wearetheperfectfittoincreasevisibilitywithinourcommunities.

HIGH SCHOOL CLASSESCLASSES SPECIALLY DESIGNED

FOR H.S. GYMNAST & THOSE

PREPARING FOR H.S. WILL GET

EVERYONE READY FOR THE SEASON!

ALSO AVAILABLE:-CAMPS -PARENT’S NITE OUT -BIRTHDAY PARTIES -OPEN GYM & FUN ZONE

CHECK OUT GYMINNY GIFT’S & GEAR!

RANCHO BERNARDO | 17022 CAMINO SAN BERNARDO 1 - 800 - GYMINNY | www.GyminnyKids.com

SINCE 1987

ACROPERFECT CLASSES FOR

GIRLS LOOKING TO

IMPROVE THEIR TUMBLING

SKILLS FOR CHEER & DANCE

NORTH COUNTY GYMNASTICSNORTH COUNTY GYMNASTICS&THE GYMINNY KIDSTHE GYMINNY KIDS

Move through life’s minor injuries with our New Orthopaedic Urgent Care Clinic

FOR MINOR INJURIES OR CONDITIONS.CARE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY CAN RELY ON.

A convenient walk-in clinic offering the best in orthopaedic care for you and your active family.

3905 Waring Road, Oceanside, CA92056760-724-9000 / Fax: 760-724-3686www.orthonorthcounty.com

Move through life’s minor injuries with our OrthopaedicUrgent Care ClinicA convenient walk-in clinic offering the best in orthopaedic care for you and your active family.FOR MINOR INJURIES OR CONDITIONS.

CARE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY CAN RELY ON.Wait times will be shorter than Emergency Rooms and the cost will be much less in most situations.

Some conditions are better treated in an emergency room. Please call us at 760-724-9000.

3905 Waring Road, Oceanside, CA 92056760-724-9000 / Fax: 760-724-3686www.orthonorthcounty.com

Move through life’s minor injuries with our

Orthopaedic Urgent Care Clinic

A convenient walk-in clinic offering the best in orthopaedic care for you

and your active family.

Carlsbad Oceanside

Text “freeslice” to 90210 for…you guessed it…

A FREE Slice!

Walwick & FreedA ProFessionAl lAW CorPorAtion

William J FreedATTorney AT LAW

specializing in:

•living trusts•Wills•estate Planning•Probate Administration & litiga-

tion•trust Administration & litigation•Will Contests•Breach of Fiduciary Duty

serving north County for over 50 Years


815 CiviC Center Drive • OCeansiDe, Ca 92054

boys >> BASKETBALL

L egend has it that as an incoming freshman, Matt Shrigley was in a pickup game during the summer with Chase Budinger and took it to

the basket with bad intentions. The story gets a little fuzzy on whether he dunked on or around Budinger; however, the message was clear - Shrigley wouldn’t back down from anyone, no matter how detailed their basketball resume.

Four years later, Shrigley has compiled an impressive list of accomplishments, including helping La Costa Canyon to its best season (35-2) in school history as the Mavericks advanced to the Division II state championship game, picking up the Southern California and San Diego Section titles along the way.

“I was successful this season because I was pushed by my team every day in practice,” said the 6-foot-6, 190-pound guard/forward. “We had some of the most competitive practices I have ever been in this year and it allowed us to get better every time we got in the gym.”

Shrigley, who is ranked as the 11th best player in the state by Cali High Sports, will take his talents down Interstate 5 with a quick transition onto Interstate 8 to play for San Diego State, where he is projected to play the off-guard position.

“His game translates well to the next level,” said a West Coast recruiter for Cali High Sports. “He has the versatility to play both the 2 and the 3 and his underrated athleticism will probably start to surface at

the college level once he enters a collegiate level training program. Shrigley can score and shoot from the perimeter with the best of them, an invaluable trait in today’s college game.”

But before he heads off to the Aztecs, Shrigley doesn’t want let go of his final season in a Mavericks uniform.

“I would describe this season as unforgettable,” he said. “It was so much fun that I will never forget it.

LCC’s Matt Shrigley: A Season to Remember


16

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif


Spotlight on Matt Shrigley sPort basKetball PositioN shootiNG Guard heiGht 6'6" WeiGht 190 Grade seNior GPa 3.4 ColleGe sdsu

favorite local restaurant? board n’ brew. i order the Chicken Club.

favorite band/music artist? dtrap da Kid

favorite cartoon as a youngster? tasmanian devil

Person you’d most like to meet? obama

favorite food? Mexican food

ultimate dream car? 2012 bMW M5 f10

favorite Movie? Pirates of the Caribbean

Greatest sports memory? Cif championship last year and this year.

future career? i’m not sure but i definitely want to stay involved in sports.

What do you miss most about being a little kid? Nap time in school

Professional athlete you’d like to be compared to? MJ because he is the best

Shrigley slam dunks against RBV earlier this season.

<< all-CIF Boys Basketball FIRST team >>

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Matt Shrigley La Costa Canyon Senior

Tyree Robinson Lincoln Junior

Joe Rahon Torrey Pines Senior

Javion Watson San Ysidro Senior

Dalante Dunklin Parker Senior

Dayton Boddie El Camino Senior

Tyrell Robinson Lincoln Junior

Anthony Alston Rancho Buena Vista Senior

Chris Jones Hoover Senior

David Travers La Costa Canyon Senior

<< all-CIF Boys Basketball SECOND team >>

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Xavier Williams Cathedral Catholic Junior

John Fletcher Vista Senior

Sedrick Childress Vista Senior

Garrett Galvin Torrey Pines Senior

Damonte Holiday Hoover Sophomore

Robby Nesovic Grossmont Senior

Devin Watson Army-Navy Sophomore

James Jackson Monte Vista Senior

Sam Okhotin Westview Senior

Marley Simmons Morse Senior

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Matt Shrigley, La Costa Canyon

COACH OF THE YEAR: Will Cunningham, Cathedral Catholic

17

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

PHO

TO: k

EVIN

MuM

MAu

18

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

19

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

Maya Hood Leads Torreys to State Title

girls >> BASKETBALL


L a Jolla country day’s Maya Hood could probably decorate her room solely in championship banners. Whether it was the volleyball or

basketball court, Hood has compiled five CIF-San Diego Section and two state titles in both sports, but she wants to be known for someone who did things the right way on and off court.

“I want my character, leadership and ultimately the role model I was to be remembered,” Hood said. “I want people to remember the hard work I put in, that it paid off, and that I was a true scholar-athlete, which is the motto of La Jolla Country Day.”

The senior forward averaged 17.4 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.7 steals and 1.9 block shots for the Torreys, who have been the top-

ranked team in the county for the entire season. With Hood patrolling the interior, LJCD has compiled a 32-1 overall record, winning three national-level tournaments en route to the state championship title.

“This season for me has been incredible and indescribable. I seriously could not have asked for a better senior year,” said Hood, the CIF-San Diego Section girls’ basketball player of the year. “We were definitely successful this year because of all the hard work that I and my team put in. In every practice, drill, game, and weight-lifting session, my team gave 110 percent in whatever we did in order to better ourselves.”

Such a work ethic should undoubtedly pay off for Hood next year at the University of San Diego, where she will have to expand her game in order to make an immediate impact.

“The transition will be a difficult one,” she said. “I need to improve my ball handling skills and I plan on putting in the extra work to get me there. Also I need to become a little more comfortable with my jump shot. Ultimately, I’m going to work my hardest to improve every aspect of my game so that when I go to USD next year, I will feel very prepared and ready to work.”

And maybe find some room for more championship banners.

Spotlight on Maya Hood sPort basKetball PositioN Guard, forWard heiGht 5'10" Grade seNior GPa 3.3 ColleGe usd

favorite local restaurant? Phil’s barbecue. i order a full rack of baby back ribs, with fries and onion rings that i always split with my twin sister.

Person you’d most like to meet? lebron James

favorite cartoon as a youngster? spongebob

ultimate dream car? a black range rover with black rims and tinted windows.

favorite actor? denzel Washington

Greatest sports memory? Winning two back to back state Volleyball Championships, a third appearance in another, and making it to the basketball state Championship my senior year.

future career? Pharmaceutical sales

best thing about your sport? Winning close games, because you feel so great, and also learn and get better.

What do you miss most about being a little kid? taking naps in Kindergarten and how easy elementary school was, because high school can be a piece of work sometimes.

Professional athlete you’d like to be compared to? i have been told that i remind people of Candice Wiggins, because of my drive, work ethic, and the ability and will to win.

advice for younger athletes? in everything you do, give 110% because in the end it will all pay off.

<< all-CIF Girls Basketball FIRST team >>

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Tia Dixon San Diego Senior

Kelsey Plum La Jolla Country Day Junior

Maya Hood La Jolla Country Day Senior

Shay Young Mount Miguel Senior

Aimee Calloway San Diego Senior

Keyahndra Cannon Mission Bay Senior

Briteesha Solomon Mission Bay Junior

Tylinn Carter Serra Junior

Devin Roeper Bishop’s Junior

Imani Littleton Bishop’s Sophomore

<< all-CIF Girls Basketball SECOND team >>

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Malina Hood La Jolla Country Day Senior

Mary Catherine McRoskey Our Lady of Peace Senior

Bridget Whitfield La Costa Canyon Senior

Alexandria Young Mater Dei Junior

Erica Lohrenz Mt. Carmel Senior

Jessica Harris Granite Hills Senior

T.R. Griffis Serra Junior

Mandy Castro Poway Junior

Ty Wheetley-Amaya Westview Senior

Emily Cole West Hills Junior

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Maya Hood, La Jolla Country Day

COACH OF THE YEAR: Corey Wright, Serra

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

PHO

TO: k

IMbE

RLy

DEuT

ScH

WW

W.S

NAP

PSPH

OTO

GRA

PHy.

cOM

Jared Cashes In as Dealer for the Dons

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

boys >> SOCCER

If one had to compare Jared Hegardt’s game to a profession, the answer would be simple -blackjack dealer.

The senior midfielder can get everyone involved in a game in a variety of ways, so they all can cash in. Hegardt knows when to “hit” a teammate with a sweet crossing pass or read the defense so his forwards won’t waste a scoring opportunity and go “bust” near the goal. Such playmaking ability helped Hegardt and Cathedral Catholic “cash in” on a Western League title and a berth in the CIF-San Diego Section Division III finals.

“We did really well this season,” said Hegardt, the spotlight sports magazine boys’ soccer player of the year. “We passed and moved off each other well which is

unusual for a high school team. We had a young, small team, but I think our ability to play quick attributed to our success this season.”

Hegardt hopes to continue his success at the college level, where he earned a scholarship to the University of Santa Clara. Broncos coach Cameron Rast believes Hegardt has the skill set to contribute immediately.

“Jared can play in the midfield or play wing,” said Rast in press release announcing his 2012 recruiting class. “He is very crafty on the ball. He has the ability to breakdown opponents on the dribble or on the pass and is very creative going to the goal. We believe he will help create a lot of opportunities to score, either for himself or his teammates.”

Hegardt knows the only way he will be on the pitch for Santa Clara is with more time training and developing as a player, either with his club team, the San Diego Surf, or with the U.S. Men’s National Team Residency Program in Bradenton, Florida.

“The guys will be bigger, more experienced and older in college,” he said. “It will probably take me a month or two to actually adapt to a new style of play that suits the college game.”

<< all-CIF Boys Soccer FIRST team >>

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Jared Hegardt Cathedral Catholic Senior

Austin Freel Torrey Pines Senior

Connor O’Neill La Costa Canyon Senior

Francisco Ramirez Southwest Senior

Andrew Orozco Coronado Junior

Jimmy Estrada Hilltop Senior

Jose Merlo San Pasqual Senior

Connor Keefe St. Augustine Senior

Paul Arriola Mater Dei Junior

Eric Budniewski Poway Senior

Michael Griswold Mt. Carmel Junior

<< all-CIF Boys Soccer SECOND team >>

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Luke Kadillak Maranatha Christian Senior

Ryan Kretz Parker Senior

Eduardo Galvan Calexico Senior

Kyler McLaughlin Serra Senior

Riki Michael Scripps Ranch Senior

Garrett Heine Torrey Pines Senior

Omar Hernandez Hilltop Senior

Aaron Martinez St. Augustine Senior

Kostas Kotselas St. Augustine Junior

Bruno Mattioli San Diego Senior

Luis Leal Orange Glen Senior

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Francisco Ramirez, Southwest

COACH OF THE YEAR: Brendan Johnston, St. Augustine

20

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Spotlight on Jared HegardtsPort soCCer PositioN CeNter Midfield heiGht 5'8" Grade seNior GPa 3.4 ColleGe saNta Clara

favorite local restaurant? el Jardin in fallbrook. i order two cheese enchiladas.

favorite video game? fifa

favorite music? hip-hop

Person you’d most like to meet? Will ferrell

favorite cartoon as a youngster? rocket Power

favorite food? steak and mash potatoes

ultimate dream car? audi r8

favorite Movie? the other Guys

favorite sportscaster? erin andrews

best thing about your sport? there are a lot of good looking soccer girls plus you get to travel to cool places.

Professional athlete would you like to be compared to? andres iniesta from barcelona. his composure and awareness with the ball is unmatched in the modern game today.

advice for younger athletes? train more than any other kid on your team because eventually it will pay off.


WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

21



22

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Adams, a four-year

letterman, has been

an integral part of the

Westview program and

helped it reach heights

it has never seen in the

school’s brief 10-year

history.

PHOTO: DEb HELLMAN

23

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

<< all-CIF GIRLS SOCCER First team

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Sarah Adams Westview Senior

Brittany Doan Cathedral Catholic Sophomore

Cory De Marco Coronado Senior

Morgan Batcheller Carlsbad Senior

Kyra Carusa Del Norte Sophomore

Cassie Collins Westview Senior

Ashley Doyle La Costa Canyon Senior

Ashley Hauke Rancho Bernardo Senior

Kiana Quarles Steele Canyon Junior

Jackie Friedman Torrey Pines Senior

Maya Theuer Bishops’ Senior

<< all-CIF GIRLS SOCCER Second team

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Pilar Torres La Costa Canyon Sophomore

Meggie Gulczynski Westview Senior

Christina Burkenroad Mission Bay Senior

Abigail Callahan Coronado Sophomore

Elissa Perry Eastlake Senior

Kassy Castillo Bonita Vista Junior

Hailey Harbison Westview Sophomore

Emma Romberg San Marcos Senior

McKenna Tollack Carlsbad Senior

Jazmin Aguas San Pasqual Senior

Betsy Muirhead Cathedral Catholic Senior

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Sarah Adams, Westview

COACH OF THE YEAR: Carl Higham, Carlsbad

Westview’s Sarah Adams Leaves Indelible Mark By Brad Hollingsworth

Perhaps the only thing bigger on the soccer pitch than Westview’s Sarah Adams is the giant “W” at the center of the field. In fact, the shadow the senior has cast over the entire Wolverines program will not go

away anytime soon.Adams, a four-year letterman, has been an integral part

of the Westview program and helped it reach heights it has never seen in the school’s brief 10-year history. Thanks to a pair of CIF titles and a finals appearance this year, Adams has left her mark.

“I would like my high school to remember me as an athlete that helped influence the program in a positive way and set a standard with the team because we were so good this year,” said Adams, the CIF-San Diego Section girls’ soccer Player of the Year.

The Georgetown University signee led Westview from her midfielder position with 37 points (11 goals, 15 assists) and believed her ability to link the defense with the offense was vital.

“My success this season cam from working hard and helping my team in the offensive side of the field,” Adams said. “I think I was very good at setting up opportunities that my very talented teammates were able to capitalize on. We played well together.”

Adams knows that it won’t be so easy in the Big East Conference with the Hoyas where the game will be more physical and faster. “I think the transition will be pretty difficult,” she said. “I will need to get stronger and practice quicker because the college game is very fast paced and competitive.”

Adams will carry with her to the Washington, D.C. campus a memorable senior season. She helped Westview to the Palomar League title, as well as a victory in the prestigious Butch Lee Tournament at Cathedral Catholic, and despite a loss in the CIF finals, the Wolverines finished fifth in the final MaxPreps’ state and national rankings.

“As a team, everyone is very talented and it was an enjoyable season,” she said. “I think with all the young players, Westview will continue to be strong.”

girls >> SOCCER

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Spotlight on Sarah AdamssPort soCCer PositioN CeNter Midfield heiGht 5'3" Grade seNior GPa 4.12 ColleGe GeorGetoWN uNiVersity

favorite local restaurant? filet mignon at flemings

favorite video games? siMs

favorite music artist? taylor swift

Person you’d most like to meet? dumbledore

favorite cartoon as a youngster? Power rangers

Professional athlete you’d like to be compared to? lauren Cheney. she is really good and moves so well on the field.

favorite food? Mcdonalds french fries and salads with feta cheese

favorite actor or actress? Kristen Wiig

favorite sporting event to watch on tV? tennis is the most entertaining sport to watch.

Greatest sports memory? receiving the adidas National Golden boot after placing the winning PK into the goal.

24

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

Spotlight on Chance EskamsPort WrestliNG PositioN Varsity, 195 lb WeiGht Class heiGht 5'10" Post seasoN WeiGht 215 Grade soPhoMore GPa 3.5

Carlsbad’s Chance Eskam Weighs in as Best in Class

>> WRESTLING

<< all-CIF WRESTLING First team

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Alfredo Espinoza Otay Ranch Junior

Micah Perez Central Sophomore

Josh Miranda Poway Senior

Evan McKirdy Del Norte Senior

Victor Lopez Poway Junior

Ridvan Bekirov Helix Senior

Travis Ino San Marcos Senior

Renas Hassan El Cajon Valley Senior

Brady Beamon Steele Canyon Senior

Connor King Poway Senior

Brit Bastow Poway Senior

Chance Eskam Carlsbad Sophomore

Richard Durr Poway Senior

Kelly Simmons Poway Senior

<< all-CIF WRESTLING Second team

PLAYER SCHOOL YEAR

Vincent Elizalde Brawley Sophomore

Colt Doyle Poway Freshman

Manny Boyle Valley Center Junior

Ralphy Tovar Poway Freshman

Antonio Perez Central Sophomore

Eddie Valencia Granite Hills Senior

Jeremy Edgel Vista Senior

Ian Baker La Costa Canyon Sophomore

Jesse Orona Carlsbad Senior

Josh McFadden Central Senior

Danny Knox Carlsbad Senior

Jimmy Moreno Poway Senior

Connor Blackwell Granite Hills Senior

James Cannon Escondido Junior

WRESTLER OF THE YEAR: Micah Perez, Central

COACH OF THE YEAR: Brody Barrios, San Marcos

If you see chance eskam in downtown Carlsbad scarfing down a few cheeseburgers or powering his way through a California burrito, don’t bother him because you don’t want to see him when he’s angry. That’s because you may

end up on your back.The Carlsbad High sophomore did that to everyone in

San Diego County this season, earning the 195-pound CIF-San Diego Section and Masters Division championships and for his efforts he earned the spotlight sports recognition in being named first-team All-CIF.

“I had a pretty good season and achieved most of my goals,” Eskam said. “Going undefeated in league and winning CIF and Masters were among the goals that I was really glad to achieve. I am really looking forward to spending the next two years working really hard, improving my performance and accomplishing more of my goals.”

Eskam may not even be the best wrestler in his family. His brother, Chace, competes at Arizona State in the 197-pound weight class, so the younger sibling knows there is plenty of work to do before he reaches the college level.

“I have received some recruiting letters from different colleges, but as a sophomore, I still have some time to consider my options,” Eskam said. “I know I would like to end up at a good Division I college with a solid wrestling program.

“During the offseason, I am looking forward to eating whatever I want, hitting the weight room and going to a lot of offseason tournaments. Of course, when the weather warms up, I am also looking forward to spending some time at the beach or in the water.”

However, Eskam won’t be far away from wrestling room where he puts in a tremendous amount of work under the watchful eye of coach Ross O’Briant. Eskam believes that the environment his coach creates along with his teammates’ dedication is the perfect formula for achievement.

“I can attribute much of my success to the great coaches at Carlsbad,” he said. “Plus, I can’t overstate how really fortunate I was having several really great upper-weight wrestlers (Charlie Rassel, Danny Knox and Jesse Orona) on the team to work out with. They only helped me get better.”

Despite the help, Eskam won’t be sharing any meals with them anytime soon.

favorite local restaurant and what do you order? don’s Country Kitchen in downtown Carlsbad. My favorite dish is the hot roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes, covered in lots of brown gravy (and a side of pancakes).

ultimate dream car? rolls royce Phantom

Person you’d most like to meet? My maternal grandfather that died before i was born. he was a professional boxer, WWii pilot and an fbi agent. he was a great family man, had many friends and had a great sense of humor.

Greatest sports memory? the san diego Masters tournament this year. immediately after winning, i spoke with my older brother Chace, who had been watching the match over a live feed. Chace won the Masters title in 2010 (and now wrestles for arizona state) and it was really great to share the moment with him.

Professional athlete would you like to be compared to? ufC fighter rampage Jackson, because he has a great “double leg takedown.”

Most inspirational athlete? anthony robles


Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

Winter 2012All-Cif

25

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2

PHO

TO: D

Eb H

ELLM

AN

26

SP

OT

LIG

HT

SP

OR

TS

COACH’S CORNER

Carl higham knows the value of a good pre-match warm up. During his experience as a player for the Barclay’s Premier League club Wigan and as a successful

club coach for the Carlsbad Lightning, Higham believes matches can be won or lost before a team even hits the pitch. Squads that are sharp and purposeful can intimidate opponents and gain a slight advantage, while those that are lackadaisical seem destined for a steam-rolling defeat.

However, the Carlsbad High girls’ soccer team took Higham and every other coach’s theory about warming up and stomped on it with their collective cleats. The Lancers were unconventional in their approach as they won their first CIF and league championships in the 57-year history of the school, which somewhat confounds their coach. “I never pressured their warm up and in all my years coaching, they had the poorest warm up ever, but when the whistle blew they were always ready to play,” explained Higham, spotlight sports magazine’s Winter Coach of the Year. “As crazy as it seems, it seemed to work well for us.”

Carlsbad used a stifling defense that recorded 18 shutouts, thanks to the excellent goalkeeping tandem of McKenna Tollack and Sarah Harrelson, to go along with a balanced attack with six players scoring at least seven goals. Even with those numbers, Higham believes the difference for the Lancers was the one thing that cannot be measured. “We were successful because of the players that I had to work with and the team chemistry was special,” he said. “They played with a lot of confidence. On the field, we had a solid defense, which let me take chances going forward.”

The Lancers, who were unbeaten (7-0-1) en route to the Avocado League West title, used that strategy in the CIF-San Diego Division I finals against San Pasqual. Shelby

Lee’s sudden-death overtime goal with nine minutes left gave Carlsbad a 2-1 victory. They used that momentum all the way to the CIF Southern California Regional semifinals before bowing out with a 3-2 defeat to Los Osos. In all, Carlsbad had a 15-match unbeaten streak to go along with a school record for victories (19) and shutouts (18).

All in all, Higham didn’t change much in his coaching style. In fact, with his team’s success based on defense and opportunistic offense, his beliefs are rooted in his methods as much as ever. “I really didn’t coach this team any differently than any other,” Higham said. “I always believe we can win every game so my style didn’t change. What I learned about myself is to keep doing things you believe in and eventually you will achieve your goals.”

And although this year’s Carlsbad team shattered one of Higham’s beliefs, they put everything together for a championship season.

Spotlight Sports Winter Coach of the Year: Carl Higham, Carlsbad High’s Girls SoccerBy Brad Hollingsworth

Photos by Deb Hellman

27

WIN

TE

R 2

01

2


PHOTOS: TAyLOR WASHINGTON

“I really didn’t coach

this team any differently

than any other. I always

believe we can win every

game so my style didn’t

change. What I learned

about myself is to keep

doing things you believe

in and eventually you will

achieve your goals.”

Steven A. Beuligmann, D.D.S.Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

1299 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, California 92008760-729-5964 Fax 760-729-6991

www.smilesofcarlsbad.com

Connect with the student athletes & their families in your community!

Team up with us!Place an ad in the

next issue of SPOTLIGHT

SPORTS MaGazIne

Call 760-809-2700or email [email protected]

Why advertise in SPOTLIGHT SPORTS MaGazIne?•Supportlocalhighschoolprogramsandhelppromoteawarenessofthestudentathletes,

positivevalues,andsportsmanship.

•Withhighschoolsportsaspopularasever,wearetheperfectfittoincreasevisibilitywithinourcommunities.

Experience the history of San Diego sports on

display at the San Diego Hall of Champions, San Diego’s premier sports museum located in the heart of beautiful Balboa Park.

2131 Pan American Plaza • San Diego, CAsdhoc.com • @HallofChampions

We Specialize In Keeping You Healthy!

Carlsbad Coastal MediCal Center offers:Family Practice • Urgent Care • Same Day Appointments

Sports Medicine • Sports Physicals

Open MOnday – Friday, 9:00 aM – 5:00 pMWalk-Ins Welcome Most Insurance Accepted

2804 roosevelt streetCarlsbad, Ca 92008

760.730.9992www.carlsbadcoastal.net

Carlsbad COastal MediCal CenterFaMily praCtiCe and Urgent Care Center

Documents

Winter Sports Edition 2012